Galatians 5:6 - For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision accomplishes anything; what matters is faith working through love.
Too often even those who profess to be Christians feel as though they must do a work or accomplish a task to please God. Here, the Apostle Paul reminds the believer that the only thing that matters is faith in Jesus Christ. Faith is the only thing that pleases God (see Hebrews 11:6). The Christians in Galatia were being persuaded that faith in Jesus Christ was not enough, but that they must also add certain works of the Law, including circumcision for a right standing with God. Circumcision was a sign of the Abrahamic covenant (see Genesis 17) for the people of God. It was a mark to show who belonged to the people of God and who did not. However, the finished work of Jesus Christ ushered in the New Covenant that was promised in the Old Covenant. The entrance into the New Covenant is faith in Jesus Christ. This New Covenant promises that the people of God would have their sins forgiven and receive the indwelling Holy Spirit forever to live for God.
Therefore, the Apostle Paul wrote that circumcision or any other human work has no value toward salvation or pleasing God, but rather faith in Jesus alone. The result of this faith is love. A true love of God will display itself in love for your neighbor. Jesus has done all the work needed for us and offers us salvation for free. So, instead of seeking ways to earn God’s grace and forgiveness through human efforts and works, let us continue to trust Jesus in everything as we love God and love our neighbors.
Self-Reflection:
Where in life have you been trying to earn or deserve God’s grace and forgiveness?